Enzymatic Formation of Supramolecular Hydrogels

Abstract

The enzymatic formation of supramolecular hydrogels is reported. A dephosphorylation enzymatic reaction (see Figure) triggers the self-assembly of N-(fluorenyl-methoxycarbonyl) tyrosine and results in hydrogelation at physiological temperatures. This enzymatic gelation process offers opportunities for in-situ generation of hydrogels in tissues and demonstrates potential for biomedical applications of supramolecular hydrogels.